HYDERABAD: One of the most eminent scientists, regarded as ‘the architect of Modern Biology in India’, Dr Pushpa Mitra Bhargava passed away at around 5.45 pm at his Uppal residence here on Tuesday. An athiest, he was also known for his outspoken nature and radical thinking.
Dr Bhargava was born in Ajmer, Rajasthan on February 22, 1928. He served as the founder-director of the Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, for 13 years from April 1977 to February 1990. He earned his PhD in synthetic organic chemistry from Lucknow University at the age of 21 and pursued post-doctoral research at the University of Wisconsin, Madison when he was 23. Two of his greatest contributions to science in India are founding of the premier research institution CCMB in Hyderabad and setting up the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), which plays an important role in funding of important research projects in biotechnology.
Dr Bhargava was suffering from kidney related ailment. Dr Bhargava is survived by a son, who stays in the US and a daughter, who lives in Germany. A statement from CCMB called him an internationally recognised molecular biologist, thinker, and institution builder. It said he belonged to the generation of nation- building scientists who built the edifice of Indian science.
He remained deeply engaged in social issues, particularly those relating to the impact of science on society in India and the world, said the statement. The CCMB officials said that “Dr. Bhargava’s extraordinary energy and commitment will continue to always inspire us in or future endeavours and he will be greatly missed.